Dear Abby's mailbox was filled with responses to a letter from "Frustrated Neighbor" about his 94-year-old, bedridden neighbor. The neighbor is cared for by a woman who also holds his power of attorney (POA).
Readers voiced strong concerns about the situation, with many describing it as elder abuse and potential fraud. One reader, "Red Flags," noted that the caregiver has "no incentive to move him to a home" given her control over his finances and pointed out that an 18-hour daily absence by the caregiver for a bedridden individual is unacceptable.
"On Watch," who identified as an attorney and volunteer member of an Adult Protective Service Multidisciplinary Team, advised contacting Adult Protective Services. This reader stated that such teams frequently encounter similar situations and can ensure an unbiased assessment.
Another reader, "Unnerved," expressed that the elderly man is a victim of abuse and neglect. The reader suggested that if the man is being left alone for extended periods, he is likely suffering from bedsores or worse, and that the authorities should be notified immediately.
In a separate segment of the column, Dr. T. Richard Parenteau, Principal Investigator at Oakland Clinical Research and a Volunteer Clinical Professor at UCSF, encouraged readers to consider participating in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease. He highlighted the SPRING Trial, which is investigating a new approach targeting the bacterium P. gingivalis and its association with gum disease that can affect the brain. The trial is enrolling individuals aged 55 to 80 diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. More information is available at springclinicaltrial.com.
Dear Abby encouraged readers to share this information with anyone who might be a candidate for the trial, emphasizing the need for volunteers and for clinical research to reflect the diverse communities affected by Alzheimer's.